LIFESTYLE POND

Kara Sanctuary

In 2012, 78 Grass Carp (White Amur) were released into ponds owned by the Kara Sanctuary in Maungatapere, Whangarei.

The residents were concerned about the rapid encroachment of aquatic weeds detracting from the visual appearance of the ponds.In particular, the domination (bring 100% of the lakebed and surface reaching) Egeria densa aka Oxygen Weed. The conclusion considered by both the residents and the Department of Conservation was that grass carp would be the most appropriate method, as mechanical removal would have been an onerous and ongoing task.

Once introduced the fish were able to reduce the weed levels by 50% within one year, with no weed being visible from the surface within two months.

Below are pictures of photos at the time of release and then 6 months after: